Fables
What is a fable?
A short story that teaches a lesson or moral, often with animals that act like people
What is a folktale
A story that has been told over and over again in a culture, usually passed down by word of mouth
What is a myth?
A traditional story that explains how something in nature or the world began, often involving gods or goddesses
What does it mean to recount a story?
To retell the story including important events in order
What is the central message of a story?
The main lesson or idea the author wants you to learn
What is the moral of a fable?
The lesson or message the story teaches.
How are folktales usually shared before they are written down?
They are told aloud from one person to another (oral tradition).
Myths often try to explain things in nature. What are some things myths explain?
How the world was created, why the sun rises and sets, how seasons began, or why storms happen
When recounting a story, what parts should you include?
Characters, setting, and major events
Where is the moral often found in a fable?
At the end of the story
In many fables animals can talk and act like humans. What is this called?
Folktales often explain traditions, nature, or why something happens. What is this called?
Explaining how or why something happens (a cultural explanation)
Who are common characters in myths?
Gods, goddesses, heroes, magical creatures, or powerful beings
Why is it important to tell events in order when recounting?
So the story makes sense
How can a character’s actions help you find the lesson?
By showing what happens because of their choices
In "The Tortoise and the Hare" what lesson does the tortoise teach the hare?
Slow and steady wins the race
What is one way folktales from different cultures can be similar?
They may teach lessons, include magical events, have good vs. evil characters, or explain traditions.
Why did ancient people create myths?
To explain things they did not understand and to teach lessons about life or behavior.
What words help you show the order of events when recounting?
First, next, then, after that, finally.
If a character lies and then faces consequences, what might the lesson be?
Lying can cause problems or it’s important to tell the truth
How can you figure out the moral of a fable?
By thinking about what the characters learn and what lesson the author wants the reader to understand.
Folktales often come from different countries and cultures. Why is it important to know where a folktale comes from?
Because it helps us understand the culture, traditions, beliefs, and values of the people who told the story.
How are myths different from fables and folktales?
Myths usually include gods or supernatural powers and explain how something in the world began, while fables teach clear lessons and folktales are traditional stories passed down in cultures.
What should you leave out when recounting a story?
Small details that are not important to the main events
What is the difference between the topic of a story and the lesson?
The topic is what the story is about; the lesson is what the story teaches